Memorial Scholarship in Honor of Omar Mohsen ’12

The University has recently established a scholarship to honor the memory of Omar Aly Mohsen (1989 – 2012), an economics senior who was scheduled to graduate last month, but was tragically killed during the soccer match that took place in Port Said on February 1. The Omar Mohsen Scholarship is a needs-based scholarship that will be awarded to an avid athlete and studious scholar who would not otherwise be able to benefit from an AUC education.

The scholarship was first announced during Omar Mohsen’s memorial service held on February 5, with the aim of commemorating his name and the story of his life. To date, more than 75 donors have made contributions to the fund including students, faculty and staff. More than 20 percent of Mohsen’s graduating class has paid tribute to their classmate through endowments.

“I want people to remember Omar for what he was –– amiable and constantly smiling,” said Cindy Youssef ’12, a contributor and member of Mohsen’s graduating class. “It is important for me to keep his name alive. Omar was known for his strong presence, and I’m hoping he will continue to be present with us through this scholarship.”

“Omar had a fueling and undeniable passion for athletics,” said Eslam Sharaf, a business administration major and Mohsen’s classmate. “The fund will hopefully enable other undergraduate students to follow in his footsteps and carry on his sports legacy.”

On Sunday, March 11, the University erected a plaque in memory of Omar Mohsen. The plaque, which is located in proximity to Bartlett Plaza, describes Mohsen as “an advocate of the rights of students and workers of the University.” It is set up such that passersby will remember Mohsen and his name would live in perpetuity.

“Omar was a role model as an AUC student,” said Mohamed Nadhan, a friend of Mohsen. “He was more than just a good student. He felt he had a responsibility to represent workers and students during the strike at the beginning of the year. He held these same sentiments toward his country. I hope that when all of us see the plaque, we will remember Omar and look up to him.”

In addition to the scholarship and plaque, AUC established a new annual award at commencement, the Omar Mohsen Athletic Achievement Cup. The inaugural award was given posthumously to Mohsen. It was accepted by his father, who also received the Parents Association Cup.

To date, more than $15,000 have been raised toward the Omar Mohsen Scholarship Fund. To join the many students, faculty and staff members who contributed to this fund, please contact the Office of Development or call 20.2.2615.2488. You can also contribute online through the University’s secure online giving page.

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